Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I leave school or training as soon as I have my 17th birthday?
A: You have to stay in school or training or work (or in a combination of approved options) until the end of the year in which you turn 17 or you satisfy the minimum requirements for graduation from secondary school established under The Curriculum Council Act, 1997. This means you have achieved the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE).Back to top
Q: Can I still have a part-time job even though I am at school or college?
A: Yes, it's fine to have a part-time job so long as you are still going to school or training on a full-time basis or if that part-time job is part of an approved combination with part-time school and / or training. Back to top
Q: I don't have any parents or a carer, so who signs my forms?
A: Speak with your school principal or contact us so we can confirm you are completely independent. Back to top
Q: If I live in the country, will my local school be able offer a suitable program?
A: If your school previously only went up to Year 10 it will offer a limited program for students who for some reason cannot attend a senior high school (with Years 11 and 12). This program may involve distance learning or structured workplace learning.  For many, a bus service is provided to the nearest senior high school.Back to top
Q: Isn't this new law a bit unfair for 17 year olds?
A: We know from research that young people who leave school too early to take up employment are often unemployed by their 20s and then find it difficult to find work. Further study after finishing school means that over a lifetime you will be more employable, more mobile, earn more money and enjoy greater satisfaction in your career.

Many countries are appreciating the benefits to both the community and the individual student of receiving training or education for a longer period. The UK is currently working on increasing its 'leaving age' to 18, and in Canada under 18 year olds cannot get a driving licence without proof that they are in education or training.Back to top
Q: What do I have to do if I don't want to stay at school full-time?
A: Your parents/carer must fill in a form and send it direct to:

Participation Unit
Secondary Directorate
Department of Education
151 Royal Street
EAST PERTH WA 6004

This form is important so we know you are actually participating in an approved option. Visit the Forms page to locate the form you need and then you can download it.
 

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Q: What happens if I decide to stay on at school after I turn 16 or 17 but then change my mind?
A: If you decide to change direction you must choose another option and get that approved. Your parents/carers must let us know if your first option doesn't work out.Back to top
Q: What is a Participation Coordinator?
A: Located throughout the state they are there to provide help and support if you do not want to be at school full-time in Years 11 and 12 and are unsure of what to do. They can help you develop a plan just for you and have lots of information about training and employment in the area where you live. Back to top
Q: What should I do if I am confused about all the choices on offer?
A: There is lots of useful information on this website but if you still can't decide which would be the best option for you speak with the career adviser at school or a Participation Coordinator who can help plan a personalised program. They can be contacted through the Manager Participation at your regional education office (formerly district education office). Back to top
Q: Why can't I just do nothing?
A: By law there is a Participation Requirement that all young people in Years 11 and 12 are to be participating in an approved education, training, employment or combination of options. Back to top
Q: Why do we need to fill in forms at all?
A: The Curriculum Council (a WA Government body) is required to keep a database of all students' participation and achievement up to the end of their 17th year. If the Curriculum Council doesn't know what you are doing it can only assume you are not participating in an approved education, training or employment option.Back to top